Setting Your Author Goals for 2025

Dear Black Author,

As January comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to set the tone for your year ahead. Whether you’re aiming to write your first book, expand your audience, or create new income streams, intentional goal-setting is the key to making 2025 your breakthrough year.

Here’s how you can set and achieve impactful goals for your writing journey.

1. Start with SMART Goals
A good goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Instead of saying, “I want to sell more books,” set a clear goal like, “I will sell 100 copies of my book by the end of the first quarter.” SMART goals give you a clear roadmap to success.

2. Examples of Author Goals for 2025
Need inspiration? Here are some powerful goals to consider:

• Write and Publish: Complete your manuscript and self-publish your book by [specific date].
• Grow Your Platform: Build your email list to 500 subscribers by mid-year.
• Marketing Focus: Schedule at least three book signings or author events this quarter.
• Diversify Income Streams: Create and launch a signature product like a journal or course.

3. Stay Accountable
Accountability is critical for achieving goals. Share your plans with a writing group or coach, or track your progress in a journal. Tools like planners or digital apps can also help you stay on top of deadlines.

4. Celebrate Small Wins
Don’t wait until you’ve achieved the big goal to celebrate. Each step forward—whether it’s finishing a chapter, hosting a webinar, or landing a speaking gig—is a win that deserves recognition.

2025 is full of potential, and you have the power to make it your most successful year yet. Set clear, actionable goals, stay consistent, and don’t forget to celebrate every milestone along the way.